Friday, December 7, 2012

What is Necessary For a Good Working Relationship?

  • Good Communication. You need to be able to work out details and solve any issues that might arise throughout the duration of the project. Establish how you will reach your electrical contractor and that he will listen to you when you communicate.
  •  Comfort. You are essentially inviting a stranger into your home. Is he/she someone you are comfortable enough with to do so? Are all the employees drug tested and background checked?
  • Trustworthiness. You may very well have to be absent much of the time while your electrician is working. It is important you feel secure leaving your home while the contractor is present.
  • Completion. Make sure the electrician gives you a reasonable estimate for how long the project will take.
  •  Written Proposal. Ask for a detailed written proposal showing what is included in the project: materials, brand names when needed, costs and payment schedule.
  •  Details. Talk about debris disposal, daily work start and end times, smoking – anything that might be an issue during the project.
  • Flexibility. Be sure you are ready to live with any changes that may be required while the project is being completed. You may be without power for a portion of the day, for example.
  • Appearance. A little cleanliness goes a long way.
  • Change Orders. Both you and the contractor should document and sign any changes to materials or contract items.

Thursday, October 18, 2012

Staying safe with Cove Electric Inc

Electrcity

Electricity has become part of an integral part of our daily lives. We use it in almost everything we do. As the holiday season draws near, your friends at Cove Electric wanted to share some safety tips to keep in mind.
  • Never use an electrical device with faulty, frayed, exposed or cracked electrical wires.
  • Switch off on power strips before plugging or unplugging devices.
  • Always call a professional to repair appliances to avoid electrical shock.
  • Portable lights should be fitted with insulation to protect from burns and potential overheating.
  • Never leave your home with heat producing appliances still operating (e.g. oven, microwave, iron, hair styling tools)
  • Regularly remove any build up of dust and clutter from around electricity sources and appliances.
  • Ensure the correct bulb size and rating (watts) is installed into lamps and and fixtures based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Ensure electrical cords are kept out of reach of children.
  • Always keep well clear of overhead power lines.
  • Know where the breaker box or fuse box is located on your property in case of an emergency.
  • Always call a professional when replacing fuses.
  • Hire a licensed electrician to inspect the main board once a year.